WHSAD at DC9 Training Facility

The group of WHSAD students learned about what it takes to be a union apprentice.

Before he puts on his cap and gown in June, Charles Soldacki wears the specialized suit of bridge painters.

Time and again, WHSAD students have opportunities to explore professional workplaces and network with those employed in such places. Learning about what the work entails and what it takes to attain such employment, students prepare themselves for life after WHSAD long before they don the cap and gown.

Below, Internship Coordinator Ms. Wilson provides her take on students’ latest experience and why taking advantage of such occasions is crucial for students.

Students came away with ideas about the array of options available after graduating from WHSAD.

On Wednesday, November 14, 2018, WHSAD students were invited to attend an Open House at the DC9 Training Facility, as part of National Apprentice Week. DC9 is the union that represents bridge painters, commercial painters, glaziers, drywall finishers, and paper hangers, and their training facility in Long Island City is also the headquarters of the Finishing Trades Institute. After a classroom presentation on the different aspects of being a union apprentice, students were invited to visit with representatives from each of the specialized trades and learn more about the specific kinds of work they do. Dante and Aedan both got to try their hand at applying a faux finish using only paint and rags/sponges; Charles donned the specialized clothing of the bridge painters; and all the students were able to use the diamond cutter to cut piece of plate glass. This visit was a unique opportunity for students to explore some of the career options available to them after graduation and hear directly from journeymen and apprentices currently working within this trade.